Celtic Warriors v Ulster: You could sense last week that Ulster's heavy win over Munster at Ravenhill Road was an important game for the province's White Knights. Not only was it their second win over Munster in the competition this season, but with the other top sides all losing, it allowed Ulster to regain their lost spot at the top of the table.
For Ulster this league is becoming like a Holy Grail with a chance of pulling off a Celtic league and cup double.
That it was done so comprehensively and with a bonus point even enlivened the normally serious Ulster coach Alan Solomons. As Ulster face the Celtic Warriors at The Brewery Field in Bridgend tonight, Solomons will not want to let the hard earned advantage slip and though he has lost Gary Longwell in the second row through injury at an Irish training camp, Solomons has plenty to offer in that department, with Matt Mustchin and Matt McCullough each having proved themselves throughout the season. As a result Rowan Frost steps up to the bench.
Back, of course, is David Humphreys at pivot and his presence should above all shape the tempo of this tough match.
Neil Jenkins will again be one of the most important players on the pitch for his kicking. The former Welsh great missed his first penalty in four months only a few weeks ago, having succeeded with his previous 44 attempts. However, Ulster should solidify their place at the top.
CELTIC WARRIORS: G Wyatt; D James, S James, J Bryant, R Mustoe; N Jenkins, P John; C Loader, M Rees, C Horsman, D Jones, R Sidoli, R Jones, C Harris, R Bryan. Replacements: C Balshen, M Jones, R Parks, S Martens, L Thomas, M Nuthall.
ULSTER: B Cunningham: J Topping, S Stewart, P Steinmetz, S Young; D Humphreys, N Doak; S Best, M Sexton, R Moore, G Longwell, M McCullough, A Ward, N McMillan, R Wilson. Replacements: P Shields, R McCormack, R Frost, N Best, K Campbell, A Larkin, P Wallace.
